By Ezekiel Gbi- Doru Dennis
The April 22, 2025, Nimba County Bi-election has become one of the most keenly watched races in Liberia, particularly because of the political dynamics, the high-profile candidates involved, and the influence of Nimba County in national politics.
As the second most populous county in Liberia, Nimba often serves as a political bellwether, and any election here draws significant attention from both local and national actors.
With the seat left vacant, the race has drawn four leading figures, each bringing a unique background and political capital to the contest. This analysis delves into their individual strengths, weaknesses, political histories, and their perceived chances in this crucial bi-election.
- Samuel Gongben Kogar
Profile: Three-term Representative for Nimba County Electoral District #5.
Known for his strong grassroots connections and consistent legislative presence.
Enjoys widespread popularity in his home district.
Strengths:
Experience and Political Longevity: Serving three terms in the House of Representatives gives Kogar an edge in terms of legislative experience and political maturity.
Grassroots Appeal: His continuous re-election suggests strong ties with the electorate and the ability to mobilize support at the community level.
Financial and Political Resources: With a long history in national politics, Kogar is expected to have significant campaign machinery and access to resources.
Challenges:
Regional Support Base: While strong in District #5, his influence in other parts of the county, particularly outside of his home base, remains to be tested on a county-wide scale.
Anti-incumbency Sentiment: As a long-term lawmaker, he may face voter fatigue or backlash from constituents seeking new leadership.
- Edith Gongloe-Weh
Profile: Former Superintendent of Nimba under President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
Three-time senatorial contender, consistently coming in second.
Strengths:
Name Recognition and County-wide Appeal: Her previous runs have built a robust political profile across Nimba, with high name Identity and strong visibility.
Consistency and Tenacity: Coming second three times speaks not only to popularity but also resilience and a solid base that is likely to turn out again.
Female Leadership: In a largely male-dominated field, she stands out as a voice for women and may attract voters who value inclusive governance.
Challenges:
Repeated Losses: While her consistency is admirable, her inability to win past elections could lead some voters to question her electability.
Association with Past Administration: Her time under the Sirleaf regime may be seen negatively by some voters, especially if framed as part of an “old guard.”
- Garrison Yealue
Profile: Former Representative for District #4 (elected in 2011).
Came third in the 2020 Senatorial election.
Served as CDC Campaign Manager in 2023.
Strengths:
Political Network: His connections with the former ruling CDC and his national-level involvement could bring institutional backing.
Legal Expertise: As a seasoned legal professional, he presents himself as knowledgeable and capable of legislative and constitutional engagement.
Name Recall: His third-place finish in 2020 means he already has a notable support base.
Challenges:
Past Defeats: Losing his representative seat in 2017 and coming third in 2020 may signal declining popularity or inability to consolidate support.
CDC Affiliation: The CDC has seen declining popularity in some quarter’s post-2023. His association with the party could both help and hurt depending on voter sentiment in Nimba.
- Mack Gblinwon
Profile: Former County Inspector of Nimba during President Weah’s administration.
Strengths:
Administrative Experience: His work as County Inspector gives him familiarity with local governance structures and county-level development.
Fresh Face Among Heavyweights: Compared to the other contenders, Gbliwon may be perceived as a relatively newer entrant, which could attract voters tired of recycled politicians.
Challenges:
Lower Political Profile: Unlike the other three, Gbliwon hasn’t previously contested county-wide elections, and may struggle with name recognition.
Limited Political Machinery: Without a previous legislative or high-profile political base, he may face resource and mobilization challenges.
COMPARATIVE OUTLOOK
CONCLUSION
The 2025 Nimba County Bi-election is shaping up to be a competitive and dynamic race.
Hon-Samuel Gongben Kogar stands as a frontrunner due to his incumbency advantage and loyal support base.
In 2024, Hon. Samuel Gongben Kogar contested in the Nimba County by-election, held to fill the vacant Senate seat following the election of Jeremiah Kpan Koung as Vice President of Liberia. A seasoned lawmaker and respected figure in Liberian politics, Hon. Kogar mounted a strong campaign, gaining significant support across the county. Despite his efforts, he placed second to Nya D. Twayen Jr., who ultimately won the senatorial seat. Hon. Kogar’s performance reaffirmed his influence in Nimba County’s political landscape.
Edith Gongloe-Weh remains a strong contender with a persistent presence and potential to consolidate the female and reformist vote. Garrison Doldeh Yealue could surprise if he leverages his national connections and CDC links effectively.
B Mack Gblinwon though the underdog, could be the race’s wild card if he captures the attention of younger and undecided voters.
Ultimately, the outcome will depend on turnout, regional dynamics, endorsements, and how effectively each candidate mobilizes support across the county, not just in their home strongholds.
EMAIL: ezekieldennis92@gmail.com
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